HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — CFD Research has been awarded a NASA contract to develop advanced nozzle technologies that improve the performance and efficiency of next-generation propulsion systems for space and hypersonic applications.
As demand grows for faster, longer-range flight and more efficient in-space propulsion, new engine concepts are needed to deliver greater performance without increasing size or weight. Rotating detonation engines (RDEs) are an emerging technology which offers a more efficient way to generate thrust; however, key components such as exhaust nozzle design remain underdeveloped and significantly impact overall engine weight, performance, and stability.
To address this challenge, CFD Research is developing a comprehensive design and optimization framework for next-generation propulsion nozzles. Building on successful initial research, the team will combine high-fidelity simulation, reduced-order modeling, and experimental validation to better understand how nozzle design influences engine efficiency and stability under realistic operating conditions.
This effort will include collaboration with the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), where experimental testing will help validate performance and accelerate the transition of these technologies into practical applications.
“Rotating detonation engines are a key enabling technology for the next generation of hypersonic and space vehicles,” said Tim Dawson, Combustion Group Leader at CFD Research. “Our goal is to develop the modeling tools and infrastructure needed to design and optimize these propulsion systems, grounding them with a targeted experimental test campaign to bring the theoretical gains into practice.”
By advancing the design of critical propulsion components, this work supports NASA’s mission to develop innovative technologies which expand the boundaries of air and space travel. The outcomes of this project could contribute to more efficient launch systems, extended mission ranges, and future manned space exploration.
About CFD Research
Founded in 1987, CFD Research is a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) engineering and technology firm delivering innovative solutions across Aerospace, Defense, Intelligence, Sensing, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Prototyping, and Test & Evaluation. The company is recognized for developing and commercializing advanced multi-physics simulation software, component and system technology prototypes, multidisciplinary analyses, and expert support services. This work has earned multiple national awards, along with recognition on the Inc. 5000 list five times in the past six years. Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, with facilities in Dayton, OH, Hollywood, AL, and Fort Walton Beach, FL, CFD Research is ISO 9001:AS9100D registered and CMMI Level II appraised for Services. Learn more at www.cfd-research.com.
